Senator Steven Oroho

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A bipartisan resolution sponsored by Senator Steve Oroho (R-Sussex, Warren, Morris) to identify ways to help retain and recruit volunteer first responders was passed by the New Jersey Senate.

Sen. Steve Oroho’s bill to help New Jersey’s volunteer first responders was passed by the Senate. (RTFD/Facebook)

“New Jersey would not be able to get the fire and EMS coverage it needs without the dedicated efforts of its volunteer first responders,” Senator Oroho said. “These individuals put their lives on the line and rush out at the drop of a hat all because of a love of community and a desire to protect their family, friends and neighbors. We must do everything we can to ensure these invaluable institutions and the services they provide don’t disappear.”

#NJ wouldn't get the fire and EMS coverage it needs without the dedicated efforts of its volunteer first responders https://t.co/3cA4dzhjmt

The resolution, SJR-23, creates the “Special Task Force on Volunteer Retention and Recruitment” in order to stabilize and grow the number of the state’s volunteer first responders. Senator Oroho had a meeting recently with some local first responders from his district who asked how the State may be able to address this critical need and the members welcomed the idea of a task force to identify potential solutions.

The task force will evaluate various incentives, training and recertification requirements and the Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP) and give its recommendations on potential changes to the Governor and Legislature.

“I know so many dedicated volunteers that do great work in my district, and I know there are countless more throughout the state,” Senator Oroho said. “We need to shore up their numbers in order to maintain this critical service, and the enormous savings it means to municipalities in terms of property taxes.”